This past week, kids from Junior Club joined the Thursday evening program that Paul and David have set up, for teens to spend an evening out on the IC37s. From up and coming sailors to those who want a different experience, most with only experience on dinghy boats, sailing on the IC37s was a whole new experience.
They all tried out different positions; learned the mechanics of the boat; they drove, rigged, and trimmed. They did all that our A team does, with safety at the forefront with the mentors (and owners) on board.
One accomplished sailor and crew member, Tony Bowman, was on board and shared his perspective:
“I think that this is so awesome that kids get to have the opportunity to experience a boat like this; a Grand Prix boat, no less! It really is a unique experience at Club level.
When I was in Junior Club, there was one night during the summer that Members would let us come out with them on their boat. So for me, it feels similar and it's nice to see that Member driven learning opportunity coming back around. Forty years later and I still remember going out on those summer nights and those memories have not faded.
What is unique about this program is the level of Member involvement that David and Paul are providing. I haven’t been associated with a program this open or welcoming before.”
Tony remembers looking at the Canada’s Cup boats on the front lawn thinking that they were the coolest boats ever.
For these teens, dinghy sailing will come to an end at some point. The more opportunities that they have to go on a keelboat and learn the teamwork involved, how to trim different sails on different styles of boat, the more their experience and opportunity to even sail in future Canada’s Cup or other International races.
These programs are boat owner driven and would very much welcome your support. To find out how to donate or reach out to Terry, please check out this page here.